How to keep yourself warm

Safety is important in all aspects of keeping yourself warm. Care should be taken when using electric blankets or filling hot water bottles. Never use a hot water bottle and an electric blanket together, as this is extremely dangerous and could give you an electric shock.

If you use an electric blanket, make sure it is safe to use by getting it tested every three years.

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Looking out for trouble

If someone has had an accident in their home (for example, fallen and injured themselves) or fallen ill, they may not be able to attract the attention of neighbours, passers-by or people who call at the door.

Always be on the look-out for signs that something might be wrong, especially when the weather is cold. For instance:

milk not taken in late in the day

newspapers stuck in the letterbox

curtains drawn during the day

lights burning during the day

home in darkness when there should be someone at home

dog barking all day or the cat scratching to be let in.

Prevention

It is important to prevent people from becoming cold in the first place. Family, friends and neighbours in the community can look out for those who might be at risk from the cold. Prevention is always easier than cure.

If you are worried about you or someone you knows health and how the home may be affecting it, please go the Better Housing Better Health website for free, impartial advice.